Graceland Cemetery is an under-visited open space in the heart of Chicago’s north side. In addition to a variety of funereal architecture and statuary, Graceland is an arboretum at heart and home to many birds and other wildlife. Our fall walk through this 161-year-old cemetery will focus more on birds and wildlife than statuary, but we’ll pause to admire the gravestones of Chicago’s departed who’s who. Depending on migration conditions, we should find a wide variety of bird species.
More information about Graceland Cemetery can be found here: https://www.gracelandcemetery.org/
Sign Up Here but please read all of the safety requirements below first.
*Safety Instructions:
- Face masks will be required for everyone and should cover both nose and mouth.
- If you are feeling ill and have any symptoms of COVID or have been exposed to anyone who has, we ask you to please not attend.
-The first time anyone deviates from the protocol, I will make a request for that individual to get back into compliance. If that individual can't or won't comply, or upon a second deviation from the protocol, I will ask the individual to leave the walk. If the individual will not leave, then I will end the walk.
These rules are for community safety, our safety, and for the comfort and peace of mind of those participating.
Trip tips:
You should carry water with you on the walk, dress for the weather and bring binoculars if you have them. There are some binoculars to borrow.
Limit: 10 people, and in order to come you MUST be fully vaccinated. Pre-registration is required for the bird walk. Please contact the trip leader or aerin tedesco at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend. (aerintedesco@gmail.com)
Leaders: Christine Williamson and Larry Krutilis; For more information, please contact Christine at birdchris@aol.com.
Meeting spot:
Meet in the small parking lot on the left just after you enter the gates of Graceland. Look for people with binoculars.
Directions:
The main entrance of Graceland Cemetery is located on the northeast corner of Clark St. and Irving Park Rd.
-> Three bus routes stop outside the gates (#80, #22 and X9). From the Sheridan stop on the Red Line, the walk to the Graceland’s gate takes about 7 minutes.
-> If you cycle to Graceland, you should be able to lock up your bike inside the cemetery near the visitor’s center.
-> Parking within the cemetery is limited, but street parking should be available on the west side of Clark St. north and south of Irving Park.